[mgist]

Great article. It is true that many Europeans have a very false notion of what Americans is like. Even the educated ones. I had an discussion with an Italian it Italy, proudly explaining to him the Americans are very diverse, and not simply comprised of xenophobic anglos as he suggested. I know he realized I was right, but he sneered anyway. I don't understand it.

[A Ruckus of Dogs]

It is true that many Europeans have a very false notion of what Americans is like

Mainly due to how their media presents us and what they get from Hollywood movies. I have family in Europe and have had to deflect some pretty dumb questions based on the distortions they have of us.

[henderson field]

What is the benefit of "diverse"? Cultural pollution? Why engage in name-calling ("xenophobic")? All I want to do is retain my national culture. That's not unreasonable. If you are intolerant of that, please go back where you came from.

[Lee'sGhost]

"I don't understand it."

It's simple, really. It's the same thing with some people. Some people try to "elevate" themselves by putting others down, rather than by improving themselves. For your Italian friend to admit that he is wrong would be admitting that we (or our system) are better, and conversely, they are not as good.

Which relates to our current status of foreign relations throughout the world. We will NEVER have good relations with some countries as long as we are considered the most powerful nation. And if we fall from such status our relations will improve to the extent that the will smile when they spit on us rather than spit behind our backs.